As a devoted follower, I can’t help but notice the chatter suggesting that my attention has been sought regarding the Adrian Portelli scandal.
Today’s presenter Alex Cullen was let go from the network on Friday, following his acceptance of a $50,000 payment from a billionaire associated with The Block.
Or, in an even simpler way:
Alex Cullen, today’s presenter, was terminated from the network last Friday due to receiving a $50,000 payment from The Block’s billionaire.
Upon the playful comment I made about sharing the potential winnings with Cullen, it seems I was summoned for a discussion with the higher-ups regarding this matter, as reported by news.com.au.
One insider told the publication Karl been allowed to ‘get away with murder’ at the network.
They noted that he consistently wins favor from one CEO or executive after another, and often escapes punishment for actions that would typically be unforgivable for most people.
Channel Nine refused to comment when contacted by Daily Mail Australia.

Karl has had his share of dramas over the years, including the ‘Ubergate’ scandal in 2018.
Back then, I was utterly engrossed as I watched the dynamic duo, the presenter and his brother Peter, find themselves embroiled in a controversial chat, hidden away in an Uber cab. And here’s the irony – this happened mere months before they were unceremoniously let go from the Today show.
While driving Uber, the driver overheard and later shared details from a phone call involving Peter and a TV journalist that was on speakerphone with Karl.
Following my sale of the tale to New Idea magazine, I chose to disclose that Karl Steffanovich had been expressing criticism towards his ex-co-host on Today, Georgie Gardner, during our personal discussions.
On Friday morning, during a live broadcast of Today, Karl announced that Cullen had decided to depart from the network.
It’s important to note that our teammate Alex Cullen hasn’t been appearing on the show for the last seven days, as Stefanovic informed the audience somberly.
It’s been extensively covered about the details leading up to it, but allow me to share some insights: Last night, Alex decided to part ways with the network as per an agreement he reached with Nine.
As a devoted fan for the past five years, I must admit that Alex has been an integral part of our Today family. His infectious smile and hearty laughter have always brightened up our days. Speaking on behalf of all us fans, it’s safe to say that we will miss him dearly when he moves on. It’s a certainty!

‘Alex is an outstanding individual, honest and true to himself. He’s been an exceptional friend to us all throughout the years, and we hope nothing but the best for him, his wife Bonnie, and their wonderful children in the time ahead.’
I, a devoted follower, am sharing this information: Upon a mutual agreement between myself and Today’s host and journalist, Alex Cullen, it has been decided that I will part ways with Nine following a comprehensive evaluation of a recent occurrence.
The controversy began when Portelli became fed up with his old nickname ‘Mr Lambo’, and decided to give a cash prize to whoever would use his new alias on live television. Last Friday, Cullen complied during the broadcast of the Today show.
Later on Instagram, the Block entrepreneur seemingly transferred $50,000 into the presenter’s account, as it seemed.
Violating journalistic independence by accepting money, presents, or advantages, or misusing a journalistic role for personal advantage, are both unethical actions according to the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) journalism code of ethics.
Due to an imprudent action, Cullen was temporarily removed from his position at Nine and didn’t feature on the show during the investigation into the questionable payment. Meanwhile, Portelli chose to contribute the money in question to a charitable organization.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Adrian Portelli for comment.
While Cullen is away from the Today show, Clint has stepped in as a live reporter from Melbourne, contributing to Nine’s broadcast of the Australian Open tennis tournament.

Regardless of Portelli’s assertion that Cullen planned to donate the funds to charity, Nine still chose to separate from Cullen.
Portelli disclosed information about donations totaling $25,000 that were made in his name to The Salvation Army and The RSPCA.
Alex Cullen arranged for a donation of $25,000 each to The Salvation Army and The RSPCA in your name, as he shared on Instagram.
Alex Cullen made arrangements to give $25,000 to both The Salvation Army and The RSPCA, which he announced via an Instagram post.
And here’s a third option:
In a recent Instagram post, Alex Cullen revealed that he was donating $25,000 on your behalf to both The Salvation Army and The RSPCA.
I haven’t said much about my situation with Alex, but before he received any news from Channel 9, we had a talk in which he shared his intention to contribute the funds.
‘That speaks volumes about his character. Alex, you’re an absolute gentleman.
If Chapter 9 ends up releasing you (which I genuinely hope doesn’t happen!), I’d be thrilled to work together on a project. You’re top-notch, my friend!
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2025-01-24 07:22